Developing a Novel Prosthetic Hand with Wireless Wearable Sensor Technology Based on User Perspectives: A Pilot...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Prosthetics

Background:

• Traditional myoelectric prosthetic hands require muscle activity detection, limiting their use for individuals with short residual limbs or paralysis.
• Advancements in wearable sensor technology offer potential for alternative prosthetic control methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel electric prosthetic hand controlled by wearable wireless sensors, independent of myoelectric signals.
• To compare the functional performance and user fatigue of the novel prosthetic hand against a conventional myoelectric hand.

Main Methods:

• A prototype wireless-controlled prosthetic hand was developed using button sensors attached to the user's trunk.
• Ten healthy therapists participated in a comparative study, evaluating both the novel hand and a conventional Ottobock myoelectric hand.
• Clinical assessments included the Simple Test for Evaluating Hand Function and the Action Research Arm Test, with fatigue measured by the modified Borg scale.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in functional performance were found between the novel prosthetic hand and the conventional myoelectric hand.
• The novel prosthetic hand demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in user-reported fatigue (p = 0.045) compared to the conventional hand.
• Preliminary evaluation suggests comparable functionality with improved user comfort.

Conclusions:

• The developed wireless-controlled prosthetic hand shows promise as a viable alternative to traditional myoelectric hands.
• This technology has potential for broader application in individuals with upper-limb deficiencies, particularly those unsuitable for conventional myoelectric prostheses.
• Further research and development are warranted to optimize this non-myoelectric prosthetic system.